At What Age Should You Start Regularly Screening For Skin Cancer?

Dr. Stephen Romagnolo holds an MD from Dartmouth Medical School in Hanover, New Hampshire. He currently is a Mohs Surgeon at Center for Dermatology and Skin Surgery, Inc., in Tampa, Florida. In his time away from work, Dr. Stephen Romagnolo regularly volunteers at skin cancer screening and awareness events.

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the US. That’s why dermatologists recommend you get regular skin cancer screening once you’re above 20 years. Below this age the risk of you being diagnosed with skin cancer is low, so regular screenings are unnecessary. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, numerous moles, or are spending a lot of time in the sun, get screened sooner.

For low-risk patients between 20 and 40 years, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends skin cancer checkups be done every three years. For persons above 40 years and high-risk patients the checkup should be done annually. ACS also recommends you perform monthly self-examinations to check for birthmarks, moles, lesions, or other marks that have unusual texture, shape, and size. These marks could be a sign of skin cancer and you should see a doctor immediately if you notice unusual marks.